Smithers was one of seven communities selected to become partners for phase two in the province’s HEART to HEARTH initiative.
The program through BC Housing works with local governments and partners through homeless and encampment response teams (HEART) to help move people sheltering outdoors, indoors.
HEARTH stands for homeless and encampment response temporary housing solutions which provides emergency housing and sheltering options.
“The province is encouraged by the increasing number of local governments that are stepping up to collaborate to support vulnerable residents in their communities and end homelessness,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.
According to the province, work is being done to find opportunities for a HEARTH site.
“Our community has long advocated for support that reflects the realities of our small northern town, and it’s encouraging to see that commitment recognized,” said Smithers Mayor Gladys Atrill.
The town will be working with BC Housing to explore shelter option and increased outreached supports.
It added clear public engagement will be part of the process to find solutions which the community supports.
Also included in the phase two expansion were Cranbrook, New Westminster, Powell River, and Squamish.
In total, 15 communities are now part of the program.
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